Nairobi is Kenya's vibrant capital city and a major hub for East Africa, blending modern skyscrapers with abundant wildlife right at the city's edge. It is the only city in the world with a national park within its boundaries, where lions and giraffes roam against a backdrop of the urban skyline. Known as the 'Green City in the Sun,' Nairobi offers world-class dining, diverse culture, and serves as the gateway to Kenya's legendary safari destinations.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
-
1
Ngong Hills Ridge Walk
The iconic Ngong Hills ridge trail follows the dramatic escarpment above the Great Rift Valley, immortalised in Karen Blixen's 'Out of Africa.' The route passes through all four peaks with stunning views over Nairobi and the Rift Valley below.
-
2
Karura Forest Nature Trail
A network of well-maintained nature trails through 1,600 hectares of indigenous urban forest. The trails wind past waterfalls, caves, a bamboo forest and seasonal streams, with excellent birdwatching throughout.
-
3
Nairobi Arboretum Walk
A gentle stroll through the 30-hectare botanical garden and arboretum in central Nairobi, with over 350 labelled tree species, well-kept grass paths and excellent birdwatching in a peaceful city setting.
-
4
Ol Doinyo Sabuk National Park Trail
A challenging full-day hike to the summit of Ol Doinyo Sabuk (Buffalo Mountain) with excellent views over Mount Kenya, the Aberdare Range and the Athi Plains. Wildlife including buffalo, monkeys and many birds may be encountered.
-
5
Mount Longonot Crater Rim Hike
A steep but rewarding hike to the rim of an active volcanic crater in the Great Rift Valley. The crater rim circuit offers dramatic views into the forested crater and across Lake Naivasha. One of East Africa's most exhilarating day hikes.
-
6
Ngong Hills Forest Trail
A forest trail through the Ngong Hills Forest Reserve approaching the hills from the eastern side, with indigenous highland forest, abundant birdlife and views over Nairobi's southern suburbs.
-
7
Nairobi National Park Walking Trail
A guided walking trail in designated areas of Nairobi National Park accompanied by a KWS ranger. The walking safari experience allows close wildlife encounters impossible from a vehicle.
-
8
Aberdare Range Day Hike
Guided day hikes through the dramatic Aberdare Range highland forest, moorland and montane peaks. The park offers guided walks through stunning moorland with giant heather and good wildlife viewing.
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
When to hike
Seasonal conditions in Nairobi.
- Jan Feb
- Best conditions — dry, warm and clear; excellent views from all summits
- Mar May
- Long rains make trails muddy and slippery; not recommended for ridge and mountain hikes
- Jun Sep
- Excellent hiking weather — dry and cool; best visibility; some trails are crowded on weekends
- Oct Dec
- Short rains make high trails muddy; Karura Forest and Arboretum still good
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Hazard: Wildlife encounters in and around Nairobi National Park — always hike with a KWS ranger in the park
Hazard: Security on Ngong Hills — hire a KWS ranger escort for the ridge hike as muggings have occurred
Hazard: Sun exposure at altitude — UV is intense at 1,800m+ even when cloudy; apply high-factor sunscreen
Hazard: Ticks and insects in long grass and forest — wear long trousers tucked into socks and apply insect repellent
Hazard: Sudden weather changes — mountain trails can become foggy and cold quickly; carry a warm layer